Question

what are the modes of action in sulfites, sodium benzoate , wood smoke and vineger.

Answer 1

Action of sodium benzoate is related to the pH of the food. It acts most actively at low pH as in needs to be in undissociated form to be active. Sulphites are used by dissolving them in water and acts as gaseous preservatives at low pH. Wood smoke and vinegar are not regarded as the chemical preservatives. Wood smoke acts by releasing its functional group and preserves meat, fish, cheese etc. Vinegar acts by detoxification process.